Today Is Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day

Moebius syndrome is a rare congenital (present at birth) developmental disorder, characterized by absence or underdevelopment of the nerves that control facial (cranial nerve 7) and eye movements (cranial nerve 6).

Most people with Moebius syndrome have weakness or complete paralysis of the facial muscles. Children and adults with facial paralysis may be unable to smile, frown, raise their eyebrows, close their eyelids or pucker their lips. This not only results in lack of facial expression but may also result in drooling and difficulty with speech. Infants can have difficulty with sucking and swallowing.

Other features of Moebius syndrome can include:

Motor delays due to upper body weakness

Strabismus (crossed eyes)

Dry eyes and irritability

Dental problems

High palate

Cleft palate

Hand and feet problems including club foot and missing or fused fingers (syndactyly)